MS ROYAL CROWN RIVER CRUISING ALONG THE RHINE, MOSELLE, MAIN & DANUBE

Transcription

1 MS ROYAL CROWN RIVER CRUISING ALONG THE RHINE, MOSELLE, MAIN & DANUBE 2018

2 CONTENTS An introduction to MS Royal Crown 03 Your Suite Deck Plan 05 Your Dining Your Space Spring Flowers & The Golden Age of Dutch Art Glories of Life & Art in the Low Countries Rivers of Music Splendours of the Rhine Across Europe by River The Enchanting East Undiscovered Holland Eastern Treasures River Danube

3 MS ROYAL CROWN RIVER CRUISING AT ITS BEST WITH NOBLE CALEDONIA Travelling across Europe by river offers an insight that cannot easily be had by more conventional forms of transport. The leisurely pace and quietness of the vessel allows you to be at one with your surroundings and the ever changing scenery and immediate accessibility of an area so steeped in history are just some of the many advantages of exploring by river. We have offered river cruises since our establishment in 1991 and in that time have witnessed an incredible growth in the number of vessels plying the rivers of Europe. The new, ultra-modern river cruise ships can accommodate hundreds of passengers, however, we have once again chosen to charter the charming MS Royal Crown for a series of cruises along the European Waterways in Built in 1996 to accommodate just 90 guests, she is in a class of her own and features exquisite furniture, expensive materials and Art Deco style cabins which give the vessel its unique atmosphere. Our guest speakers, who will accompany you on board the MS Royal Crown will add to your enjoyment with informative talks and, after 25 years of operating cruises along the rivers of Europe, we have accumulated the very best of local guides for our excursions. Their enormous wealth of knowledge and their own individual views provide colour to our trips leaving you with a lasting memory of all you see. In addition to the excursions we have also included drinks with lunch and dinner, as well as gratuities in the price which makes for all-round ease and enjoyment when travelling aboard the MS Royal Crown. Whether your main interest lies in history, politics, art, wine, music or simply enjoying the stately pace as we navigate through ever changing scenery, we believe we offer the most comprehensive range of river journeys along the Rhine, Moselle, Main and Danube for the genuine traveller. 3

4 Royal Suite MS ROYAL CROWN This elegant vessel combines the nostalgic charm of the 1930s with the comfort and service of a four-star vessel. No expense has been spared to create not only a vessel that is beautiful to look at, but also a great joy to travel on. Spacious teak decks, elegant public rooms and staterooms with mahogany, rosewood and marble, together with rich fabrics and specially designed furniture, all blend together to create a unique river vessel. YOUR SUITE MS Royal Crown has 45 suites which range in size from 145 square feet to the spacious Royal Suites which measure 200 square feet. All suites are fitted with spacious rosewood cupboards, a dressing table, satellite TV, a safety deposit box, individually controlled air-conditioning and en-suite facilities with shower and hairdryer. Suites on the Select Deck have portholes and the Royal Suites on the Panorama Deck have large windows. Premium Suite Deluxe Suite 4

5 Lido Bar DECK PLAN LIDO DECK LIDO BAR PANORAMA DECK RESTAURANT LIBRARY FOYER Cabin hospitality FITNESS SAUNA BOUTIQUE RECEPTION LOUNGE SELECT DECK JUNIOR SUITE SUPERIOR SUITE DELUXE SUITE PREMIUM SUITE ROYAL SUITE Please note that Junior, Deluxe & Superior Suites have fixed twin beds. Premium and Royal Suites have fixed double beds with separate mattresses and duvets, so can be made up as twins if required. Bathroom +44 (0)

6 The Restaurant 6

7 YOUR DINING While the most beautiful river scenery passes by, enjoy delicacies created by the Executive Chef and his team. The restaurant has open seating, allowing you to sit where and with whom you like at each meal. In the morning breakfast is served buffet style, lunch is a delightful buffet with hot and cold choices and dinner is a served four course meal. In addition house wine, beer and soft drinks are included at both lunch and dinner. Farewell Gala Dinner Appetizer Variation of salmon with honey mustard dressing and fresh garden lettuce Soup Broccoli cream soup with gorgonzola croutons Warm Appetizer Grilled King Prawn on saffron risotto and herb sauce Sorbet Cassis Sorbet with sparkling wine Main Pink roasted slices of Beef Tenderloin served with béarnaise sauce, gratin potatoes and fresh garden vegetables Desserts Dessert Parade Baked Alaska MS Royal Crown or Cheese plate with crackers, nuts and grapes +44 (0)

8 Bar Lounge Sun Deck YOUR SPACE The elegant Lounge Bar is defined by its 30s inspired Art Deco style, with textured carpets, carved mahogany and plush sofas which create a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. Experience unforgettable views from the large windows as you enjoy a tea or coffee. The lounge is also where our guest speakers will entertain you with informative presentations. In the evenings, let the day come to an end with a choice of beverages from the extensive menu accompanied by a musician playing a Steinway & Sons grand piano. The huge Sun Deck on MS Royal Crown covers almost the entire length of the vessel, interrupted only by the bridge and the Lido Bar (open when weather permits) where you can enjoy a drink under the umbrella such as fresh juice, a milkshake, or even a cocktail. Recline on a sun lounger and read a book or watch the changing scenery. There is also a putting green and a large chess board for your enjoyment. For some time out, relax in the wellness centre which includes a sauna with shower facilities, and a fitness room. There is also a small boutique and a library with a selection of books and games. 8

9 The Lounge +44 (0)

10 SPRING FLOWERS & THE GOLDEN AGE OF DUTCH ART A cruise exploring the horticultural highlights & art treasures of the Netherlands 29 th March to 8 th April* & 8 th to 17 th April 2018 Spring is the perfect time of year to immerse yourself in the cultural and horticultural splendours of the Netherlands. During our voyage aboard the wonderfully comfortable MS Royal Crown, we will explore the countryside in some depth, visiting the magnificent flower displays of the Keukenhof, the beautifully restored Palace and Gardens of Het Loo, the picturesque towns of the Zuider Zee, the botanical gardens in Utrecht and of course the art treasures of Amsterdam and The Hague. April is the perfect time for such a journey, the bulbs will be at their best and the landscape touched by the arrival of spring. The itinerary we have designed is, we believe, a perfect mix of horticulture, history, art and Dutch lifestyle and makes for a colourful and endlessly interesting cruise. NORTH THE NETHERLANDS SEA Hoorn Haarlem Edam & Volendam Keukenhof Amsterdam Marken Delft Utrecht The Hague Veere Rotterdam Arnhem Rhine Middleburg THE ITINERARY Day 1 London, Bristol, Manchester or Edinburgh to Amsterdam, Netherlands. Fly from your chosen airport by scheduled flight. Drive to the MS Royal Crown and embark. Moor overnight in Amsterdam. Day 2 Amsterdam. After breakfast on board, we will depart for a visit to the Rijksmuseum, arguably Amsterdam s most important art venue. Housing some of the greatest examples of Western European painting and decorative arts, it boasts works by Vermeer, Goya and Rubens. Here, Rembrandt s famous The Night Watch hangs in the Hall of Honour. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon there will be an optional tour to visit the Bloemenmarkt, one of the city s most colourful attractions and the world s only floating flower market. Alternatively, you ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS n Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh & Hermitage museums in Amsterdam n Canal cruise in Amsterdam and opportunity to visit the famous Bloemenmarkt n Het Loo Palace & Gardens n Mauritshuis Museum in The Hague & Delft Blue Pottery n Keukenhof Gardens at Lisse n Botanical Gardens at Utrecht may prefer an afternoon at leisure on board or to explore independently. Join the Welcome Drinks and Dinner on board this evening. Moor overnight. Day 3 Amsterdam. This morning we will visit the Van Gogh Museum which houses one of the world s largest collection of works by the artist, including Almond Blossom and The Bedroom. Return to the MS Royal Crown for lunch and this afternoon there will be a choice of included excursions. Join a relaxing Canal Cruise, one of the most interesting ways to see this unique city. Alternatively, join our visit to the Hermitage Museum and its exhibition Dutch Masters on the Amstel. The Hermitage s collection of paintings, prints and drawings by Dutch Masters is one of the worlds largest. Return to the ship and this evening sail to Hoorn where we will moor overnight. Day 4 Hoorn for Edam, Volendam & Marken. Enjoy a morning at leisure in the pretty 16th century town of Hoorn. After lunch on board we will depart for an excursion to experience three unique communities of the Zuider Zee. Our first call will be at Edam, a tranquil little town with drawbridges across canals and charming historic houses with lovely facades. Continue on to Volendam, which has always been a fishermen s village, and despite the closing of the Zuider Zee in 1932, the bustling harbour area with its many boats is still a major attraction. Our final visit will be to the fascinating village of Marken which was separated from the mainland after a storm surge in the 13th century. Here the houses and the traditional costumes are reminiscent of the past. In the old days the island was flooded quite regularly, and for this reason, houses were built on stilts and on mounds. Return to Hoorn and sail in the early evening. The Old Town, Hoorn Keukenhof Gardens 10

11 The East Gate and Bridge, Delft SPRING FLOWERS & THE GOLDEN AGE OF DUTCH ART Rembrandt s The Night Watch - Rijksmuseum The Palace and Gardens of Het Loo Day 5 Arnhem & Het Loo. Arrive this morning into Arnhem. After breakfast on board join an excursion to the Palace of Het Loo, the favoured summer residence of the Dutch Royal family from 1686 to The Palace and grounds have undergone a spectacular restoration returning them to their original 17th century splendour. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon there will be a choice of three included excursions. Choose from a trip to visit the memorable Airborne Museum Hartenstein ; this renovated building houses the world s largest collection of militaria from Operation Market Garden. Alternatively, enjoy a tour to the nearby 12th century Doorwerth Castle, situated in beautiful surroundings on the Rhine and home to three museums. The interior has been restored to its 18th century state. Or finally, you may like to visit the private art collection at the Kroller Muller Museum with its late 19th and 20th century paintings. This evening we will sail towards Veere. Day 6 Veere & Middleburg. Today we explore Southern Zeeland, starting in the 13th century town of Veere. Formerly a seaport but now within a lake due to the Delta works carried out in the 1960s, it is a charming place with well-preserved houses and a marina. Enjoy free time here to explore at your own pace. Return to the ship and sail on to the lovingly restored Medieval town of Middelburg whose 12th century abbey is one of the oldest in the Netherlands. Join an afternoon guided walking tour on arrival. Day 7 Rotterdam, The Hague, Delft. From Rotterdam we depart for a full day tour. Our first stop will be The Hague for a visit to the beautiful Mauritshuis Museum with its marvellous collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings. Afterwards continue on to Delft, birthplace of Vermeer. We will have lunch in a local restaurant on arrival, and afterwards take a walking tour of this pretty town, finishing with a visit to see the Delft Blue Pottery. Return to the ship and sail to Utrecht for an overnight mooring. Day 8 Keukenhof Gardens & Haarlem. After breakfast drive to nearby Keukenhof Gardens for a morning in this extraordinary horticultural heaven. With 32 hectares of flowers, more than 7 million bulbs in bloom and 800 varieties of tulips, this is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Afterwards we will return to the MS Royal Crown for a late lunch and time at leisure in Utrecht. Alternatively continue with an optional afternoon excursion to Haarlem. The excursion includes lunch in a local restaurant on arrival, followed by visits to the 17th century Church of St. Bavo, immortalised in the artwork of Dutch painters Pieter Saenredam and Gerrit Berckheyde, and the Frans Hals Museum, home to a spectacular display of 16th and 17th century portraits, still life s and landscapes. *29 th March 2018 Departure Please note that the itinerary for this departure is one day longer to that shown with the additional day spent in Dordrecht & Kinderdijk which will be on day 6 of the itinerary as follows: Day 6 Dordrecht & Kinderdijk. Enjoy a relaxing morning cruise as we head towards Dordrecht. After lunch on board there will be an excursion to see the nearby marvellous Windmills of Kinderdijk, of which there are 19 in total, dating from The remainder of the day is free to explore Dordrecht with its old world atmosphere and quaint shops, cottages and canals. Sail on towards Veere this evening. Day 9 Utrecht. This morning we will visit Utrecht s Botanical Gardens at Fort Hoofddijk, a unique natural treasure consisting of thousands of plant species. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. This evening whilst we sail towards Amsterdam, enjoy your Farewell Drinks and Dinner. Day 10 Amsterdam to London, Bristol, Manchester or Edinburgh. Disembark after breakfast. Transfer to the airport and return to your chosen UK airport by scheduled flight. PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy SPECIAL OFFER SAVE 300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Cat Junior Suite Superior Suite Deluxe Suite Premium Suite Royal Suite Deluxe Suite for sole use Deck Select Select Select Select Panorama Select Brochure Price th March Special Offer Price th April Brochure Special Offer Price Price Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 9/10 nights aboard the MS Royal Crown on a full board basis, house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, shore excursions as described, Cruise Director, Tour Manager, Guest Speaker, gratuities, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. Not Included: Travel insurance, optional excursions as described. +44 (0)

12 GLORIES OF LIFE & ART IN THE LOW COUNTRIES A river voyage along the Dutch Waterways to Ghent in Belguim 17 th to 26 th April 2018 Our springtime cruise is a wonderful mix of art, culture, and history. For art lovers we have included many of Amsterdam s fine establishments. We will also visit the horticultural splendours of Keukenhof and the pretty towns of the Zuider Zee. Our journey continues on to the famous windmills at Kinderdijk and includes a relaxing afternoon in Dordrecht. We also visit Southern Zeeland s charming and lesser known ports of Veere and Middleburg. Last, but not least, we spend two days in the beautiful Flemish cities of Ghent and Bruges where you can explore their historic canals, cobbled streets and Medieval buildings. We will enjoy the great comfort of the MS Royal Crown as we criss-cross the intricate network of rivers and waterways that make the Low Countries such a unique region and will witness the gentle landscape and picturesque cities and towns which so inspired the Old Masters. Bruges NORTH SEA Amsterdam BELGIUM Ghent THE NETHERLANDS Hoorn Haarlem Edam & Volendam Keukenhof Kinderdijk Veere Middleburg Marken Dordrecht Rhine THE ITINERARY Day 1 London, Bristol, Manchester or Edinburgh to Amsterdam, Netherlands. Fly from your chosen airport by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Royal Crown. Moor overnight in Amsterdam. Day 2 Amsterdam. After breakfast on board, we will depart for a visit to the Rijksmuseum, arguably Amsterdam s most important art venue. Housing some of the greatest examples of Western European painting and decorative arts, it boasts works by Vermeer, Goya and Rubens. Here, Rembrandt s famous The Night Watch hangs in the Hall of Honour. Return to the ship for lunch, and this afternoon there will be an optional tour to visit the Bloemenmarkt, one of the city s most colourful ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS n Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh & Hermitage museums in Amsterdam n Canal cruise in Amsterdam, and opportunity to visit the famous Bloemenmarkt n Keukenhof Gardens at Lisse n Windmills of Kinderdijk & old world charms of Dordrecht n Exploring Southern Zeeland Canal houses in Amsterdam attractions and the world s only floating flower market. Alternatively, you may prefer an afternoon at leisure on board or to explore further independently. Join the Welcome Drinks and Dinner on board this evening. Moor overnight. Day 3 Amsterdam. This morning we will visit the Van Gogh Museum which houses one of the world s largest collection of works by the artist, including Almond Blossom and The Bedroom. Return to the MS Royal Crown for lunch and this afternoon there will be a choice of included excursions. Join a relaxing Canal Cruise, one of the most interesting ways to see this unique city. Alternatively, join our visit to the Hermitage Museum and its exhibition Dutch Masters on the Amstel. The Hermitage s collection of paintings, prints and drawings by Dutch Masters is one of the worlds largest. Day 4 Keukenhof Gardens & Haarlem. From Amsterdam, drive to nearby Keukenhof Gardens for a morning in this extraordinary horticultural heaven. With 32 hectares of flowers, more than 7 million bulbs in bloom and 800 varieties of tulips, this is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Following our visit we will return to MS Royal Crown for a late lunch. Alternatively, continue with an optional afternoon excursion to Haarlem. The excursion includes lunch in a local restaurant on arrival, followed by visits to the 17th century Church of St. Bavo, immortalised in the artwork of Dutch painters Pieter Saenredam and Gerrit Berckheyde, and the Frans Hals Museum, home to a spectacular display of 16th and 17th century portraits, still life s and landscapes. Return to the ship and sail to Hoorn for an overnight mooring. Day 5 Hoorn for Edam, Volendam & Marken. Enjoy a morning at leisure in the pretty 16th century town of Hoorn. After lunch on board we will depart for an excursion to experience three unique communities of the Zuider Zee. Our first call will be at Edam, a tranquil little town with drawbridges across canals and charming historic houses with lovely facades. Continue on to Volendam, which has always been a fishermen s village, and despite the closing of the Zuider Zee in 1932, the bustling harbour area with its many boats is still a major attraction. Our final visit will be to the fascinating village of Marken which was separated from the mainland after a storm surge in the 13th century. Here the houses and the traditional costumes are reminiscent of the past. In the old days the island was flooded quite regularly, and for this reason, houses 12

13 Drawbridge and the town of Edam GLORIES OF LIFE & ART IN THE LOW COUNTRIES The Medieval Belfry and Rosary Quay, Bruges The windmills of Kinderdijk were built on stilts and on mounds. Return to Hoorn and sail in the early evening Day 6 Dordrecht & Kinderdijk. Enjoy a relaxing morning cruise as we head towards Dordrecht. After lunch on board there will be an excursion to see the nearby marvellous Windmills of Kinderdijk, of which there are 19 in total, dating from The remainder of the day is free to explore Dordrecht with its old world atmosphere and quaint shops, cottages and canals. Sail on towards Veere this evening. Day 7 Veere & Middleburg. Today we explore Southern Zeeland, starting in the 13th century town of Veere. Formerly a seaport but now within a lake due to the Delta works carried out in the 1960s, it is a charming place with well-preserved houses and a marina. Enjoy free time here to explore at your own pace. Return to the ship and sail on to the lovingly restored Medieval town of Middelburg whose 12th century abbey is one of the oldest in the Netherlands. Join an afternoon guided walking tour on arrival. Sail overnight to Ghent. Day 8 Ghent, Belguim. After breakfast today, we will explore the highlights of this Flemish gem, including St Bavo s Cathedral, home to the unique altarpiece The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, painted by the Van Eyck brothers in We also visit the ancient port at Graslei with its unique row of historical buildings, St Nicholas Church and the grandiose Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen). After lunch on board, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to shop or sightsee further. Day 9 Ghent for Bruges. Bruges was one of the largest and finest cities in Europe. The 15th century Belfry still dominates the centre as it did then and the Town Hall, St John Hospital and the Begijnhof border the narrow canals. From Ghent we drive here and on arrival take a walking tour. We will see some of the most important places and buildings which survive from the Middle Ages including the Basilica of the Holy Blood, City Hall, the Begijnhof, Minnewater and the Belfry and Church of Our Lady. Your tour will end with a visit to a local chocolatier and a delicious tasting. Return to the ship for a late lunch and this afternoon sail to Amsterdam. Day 10 Amsterdam to London/Bristol/Manchester/Edinburgh. Arrive this morning and disembark after breakfast. Transfer to the airport and return to your chosen UK airport by scheduled flight. PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy SPECIAL OFFER SAVE 300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Cat Junior Suite Superior Suite Deluxe Suite Premium Suite Royal Suite Deck Select Select Select Select Panorama Brochure Price Special Offer Price Deluxe Suite for sole use Select The Gravensteen, Ghent Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 9 nights aboard the MS Royal Crown on a full board basis, house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, shore excursions as described, Cruise Director, Tour Manager, Guest Speaker, gratuities, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. Not Included: Travel insurance, optional excursions as described. +44 (0)

14 RIVERS OF MUSIC A springtime cruise along the Rhine & Moselle from the Low Countries to Switzerland with performances by London Festival Opera 26 th April to 9 th May 2018 Join us for our springtime cruise along the Rhine and Moselle as we highlight the wonderful music, wine and culture to be found along these majestic waterways. The mighty Rhine, for so long one of Europe s main trading routes contrasts beautifully with our exploration of the Moselle, surely one of the loveliest rivers in all Europe. We will also visit the historic city of Heidelberg on the Neckar River, one of Europe s great seats of learning. Most trips on offer along the Rhine are based on four to six days and concentrate on only one section of the river. However, here you have a most comprehensive and scenic journey including the great wine producing areas along the Moselle, the historic cities of Bonn and Speyer, the enchanting towns of Boppard and Bacharach, and a scenic tour NORTH SEA Keukenhof THE NETHERLANDS Amsterdam Rhine GERMANY Bonn Cochem Boppard Rudesheim Bernkastel Bacharach Main Moselle Heidelberg Speyer FRANCE Baden-Baden Rhine Strasbourg SWITZERLAND through Germany s mystical Black Forest. Added to these riches is a visit to Strasbourg in France, a fascinating place in the delightful Alsace region. This detailed look at two of Europe s great rivers will offer a captivating and endlessly romantic journey. The scenery is stunning and an excellent combination of fairytale castles with Medieval towns and villages, all with their own unique history of artistic riches. Breisach Basle Added to the mix will be performances by artists from the splendid London Festival Opera. Performances include an Opera Gala performance at Bernkastel s Kloster Machern, a vocal and instrumental recital at Vollrads Castle near Rudesheim and a presentation of a Classical Soiree at Mannheim Castle, which will feature celebrated arias and ensembles from the operas of Haydn and Mozart, performed in period costume. Cochem 14

15 RIVERS OF MUSIC Siegfrieds Musical Museum Speyer Cathedral Church of St Nicholas, Old Town Canal, Amsterdam Strasbourg THE ITINERARY Day 1 London to Amsterdam, Holland. Fly by scheduled flight and on arrival transfer to the MS Royal Crown and embark. Moor overnight. Day 2 Amsterdam. This morning we will visit the Keukenhof Gardens, an extraordinary horticultural heaven. With 32 hectares of flowers, more than seven million bulbs in bloom and 800 varieties of tulips, this is a truly unique experience. We will return to the MS Royal Crown for a late lunch followed by an afternoon at leisure to relax or sightsee independently. Before the Welcome Drinks and Dinner this evening there will be a classical performance on board by a string quartet. Day 3 Amsterdam. This morning there will be a choice of tours. Depart for a visit to the Rijksmuseum, arguably Amsterdam s most important art venue. Housing some of the greatest examples of Western European painting and decorative arts, it boasts works by Vermeer, Goya, and Rubens. Here, Rembrandt s famous The Night Watch hangs in the Hall of Honour. Alternatively you may prefer to take a canal cruise and admire the city from a glass-top boat as you glide past 17th century homes, churches and 16th century merchant houses. Return to the MS Royal Crown and sail towards Bonn. Day 4 Bonn, Germany. This morning we will cruise along the legendary Rhine passing Duisburg and Dusseldorf before arriving in Bonn in the afternoon. Our walking tour here will include a visit to Beethoven s House and will finish with a concert by a string quartet in the adjacent hall. Day 5 Cochem. Relax on board this morning and enjoy the lovely scenery of the Moselle Valley as we make our way to Cochem where we will arrive in the early afternoon. The town of Cochem is famous for its 11th century Schloss and the Reichsburg, set impressively on a tree clad hill above a bend of the river. On our guided tour we will walk along its winding Medieval streets and see the Baroque Town Hall. Day 6 Bernkastel. Arrive this morning at Bernkastel, situated in the heart of the Moselle Valley. On our morning ashore we will explore this lovely town and sample some of its locally produced wine. After lunch on board, we will drive to nearby Kloster Machern for an Opera Gala performance by London Festival Opera, featuring the works of the great German, French and Italian composers. Day 7 Boppard & Bacharach. Arrive this morning into Boppard, one of the prettiest towns along the Rhine. We will have the morning here to explore its myriad of cobbled streets at leisure and visit the 14th century Carmelite Church. Return to the vessel and this afternoon sail to Bacharach, a charming and friendly town with historic buildings and the majestic backdrop of Stahleck Castle. Since the Middle Ages, Bacharach, named after Bacchus, the ancient Roman God of wine, has been the most important wine village in the Middle Rhine Valley. We will enjoy a wine tasting ashore of the locally produced Rieslings before returning to the vessel and sailing on towards Rudesheim. Day 8 Rudesheim. After breakfast today depart on a tour to explore the cobblestone streets of Rudesheim s vibrant Drosselgasse and take a mini-train to Siegfried s Mechanical Music Museum. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon we depart by coach to nearby Vollrads Castle. This grand estate has been the Greiffendau residence since the 14th century and the making of wine on this site can be traced back to We will enjoy a visit to the Vinothek to sample some of their splendid wines. Afterwards, relax and enjoy a vocal and instrumental recital by London Festival Opera. Return to the vessel and this evening sail past the city of Mainz where the Rhine meets the Main. Day 9 Mannheim for Heidelberg. From our berth in Mannheim, we set off after breakfast for an excursion to the University City of Heidelberg, with its Baroque-style old town and castle. During our tour, we will visit the castle and gardens, stroll through Heidelberg s enchanting old town and see its Renaissance building, Zum Ritter, which survived the fire of Return to the vessel for lunch and some free time we will depart this evening for Mannheim Castle for London Festival Opera s presentation of a Classical Soirée, featuring celebrated arias and ensembles from the operas of Haydn and Mozart, performed in period costume. Sail in the late evening. Day 10 Speyer. We will arrive this morning in the handsome city of Speyer where our guided tour will include the mighty cathedral. This Romanesque basilica was founded by Emperor Conrad II in 1030 and is one of the largest and most impressive edifices in Germany. Our tour will end with a concert by Stefann Balle and his Stuttgarter Symphonic Quartet at nearby Schwetzingen Castle. Return to the vessel for a late lunch and some time at leisure this afternoon to relax or explore ashore. Day 11 Strasbourg, France. Enjoy a morning s cruise as we head towards Strasbourg, arriving in the early afternoon. After lunch on board, depart for a tour that will introduce us to the delights of this city, including the fascinating old quarter. Start with the Quai de la Petite France where the River Ill splits into a number of canals, see the Ponts Couverts, a series of wooden bridges dating back to the 13th century, the Place Gutenberg and the Cathedral of Notre Dame, the tallest Medieval building in Europe. Afternoon at leisure, and sail in the early evening towards Breisach. +44 (0)

16 POST-CRUISE EXTENSION COLMAR, ALSACE 9 th to 13 th May 2018 We are offering an opportunity to spend four nights after your cruise in the charming town of Colmar, capital of the Alsace Region. Colmar offers an exciting glimpse of 1,000 years of European history with its wonderfully preserved historical centre, careful restoration, traditional hospitality and friendly ambience. Lying near the vine-covered foothills of the southern Vosges, the town boasts picturesque 16th and 17th century burghers houses, art treasures, delicious cuisine and superb wines. Statue of Mythical Figure, Helvetica, Basle Day 12 Breisach & The Black Forest, Germany. This morning we arrive in Breisach, gateway to the Black Forest. After breakfast we will depart for a scenic excursion through the area s mountain landscape, meadows and dense forest. During our tour we will ensure there is time to sample some delicious Schwarzwalder Kirschtorte. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon will be at leisure in the pretty town of Breisach or for those who wish, there will be an afternoon tour to nearby Neuf-Brisach, the Citadel of the Sun King, founded in 1699 at Louis XIV s behest. Today, it is considered as Vauban s masterpiece. Its architecture is unique in Europe and the Citadel is listed as part of the World Heritage by UNESCO. Day 13 Basle, Switzerland. After breakfast today there will be a guided walking tour of Basle, Switzerland s third most populous city and whose borders also meet with France and Germany s. The Medieval appearance of Basle s historic quarter remains as impressive to the locals as it does to the tourists who come here each year and our tour will pass by its cathedral, the glorious guildhalls, Basle s manor houses and will end with breathtaking views from the top of Münster Hill. Return to the MS Royal Crown for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Early this evening join your fellow travellers in the lounge for a delightful piano recital by the excellent artist Martin Ivanov, followed by your Farewell Dinner. Day 14 Basle to London. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your return scheduled flight to London. PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy SPECIAL OFFER SAVE 300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Brochure Special Offer Cat Deck Price Price Junior Suite Select Superior Suite Select Deluxe Suite Select Premium Suite Select Royal Suite Panorama Deluxe Suite for sole use Select Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 13 nights aboard the MS Royal Crown on a full board basis, house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, shore excursions, music aboard and ashore as described, Cruise Director, Tour Manager, Guest Speaker, gratuities, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. Not Included: Travel insurance. GRAND HOTEL BRISTOL, COLMAR Located opposite the beautiful station in Colmar, the Best Western Grand Hotel Bristol is an elegant and traditional Alsatian building built in Located a short walk from the historic centre of the city, this family hotel boasts 91 comfortable rooms, all equipped with free Internet access (Wi-Fi), cable TV and air conditioning. The hotel offers a choice of dining options: the gourmet restaurant Au Rendezvous de Chasse (1 Michelin star) and The Brasserie L Auberge, with authentic specialties of the region. There is also a wellness area with sauna, a hammam spa and fitness equipment. THE ITINERARY Day 1 Basle to Colmar. Disembark the MS Royal Crown in Basle after breakfast and enjoy a tour of the town before driving on to impressive Haut Koenigsbourg for lunch. Continue on to Colmar and check in to your hotel. Remainder of the evening at leisure. Day 2 Colmar. After breakfast at your hotel, join a walking tour of Colmar which will include a visit to the Unterlinden Museum, home to the Isenheim Altarpiece, an altarpiece sculpted and painted by Niclaus of Haguenau and Matthias Grunewald. The remainder of your day will be at leisure to sightsee and explore independently. Day 3 Alsace Route des Vins. After breakfast at your hotel, depart for a full day tour of the Alsace wine region. This famous wine route runs for 170 kilometres along the foothills of the Vosges, and includes over 160 wine villages. Our first stop this morning will be at the charming town of Ribeauville, once the seat of the Seigneurs de Ribeaupierre who built three fortified castles, the ruins of which still majestically dominate the town and surrounding hills. On arrival enjoy a walking tour followed by a visit to the family owned Trimbach Estate (or similar) for a wine tasting. Departing here, we take a short drive to the village of Bergheim, situated in pleasant undulating landscape in the heart of the Alsace vineyards. We will have lunch here on arrival including some tasting of local wines. After lunch we will drive to picturesque Obernai and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure to explore and shop at your own pace before returning to your hotel in Colmar. Day 4 Colmar. Enjoy a day at leisure to relax, sightsee, sample local fare and shop. Day 5 Colmar to London. After breakfast transfer to Basle airport for your return scheduled flight to London. Prices per person Based on double occupancy Twin: 625 Single: 895 Price Includes: Four nights hotel accommodation at the Best Western Grand Hotel Bristol on bed & breakfast basis, transfers, tours as described, lunch on days 1 & 3. Not Included: Travel insurance. 16

17 RIVERS OF MUSIC +44 (0) Heidelberg 17

18 SPLENDOURS OF THE RHINE A river journey along the majestic Rhine from Switzerland to the Low Countries 9 th to 20 th May 2018 The month of May is a wonderful month for a river journey along the Rhine, the weather becomes warmer, flowers are in bloom with the promise of summer and the popular towns and cities of the Rhine are not yet busy with tourists. Our voyage along this majestic river is a relaxing and expansive journey highlighting the culture, history and architecture along the way. There are numerous enchanting ports of call including the charming French city of Strasbourg, Baden-Baden in Germany with its unique setting and ambiance and the ancient city of Worms, famous for its historic association with Martin Luther. The scenery along the route is captivating and diverse, and we have included some delightful riverside towns as we head towards our final destination of Amsterdam, city of the Golden Age. NORTH SEA NETHERLANDS Amsterdam Arnhem Cologne Rhine GERMANY Koblenz Rudesheim Main Boppard Worms Moselle Heidelberg FRANCE Baden-Baden Strasbourg Rhine Basle SWITZERLAND THE ITINERARY Day 1 London to Basle, Switzerland. Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Royal Crown and embark. Day 2 Basle. This morning s excursion will take us to the old market square with its brightly painted Town Hall and along Minster Hill past many handsome 18th century houses to the Minster with its slender twin spires. The oldest parts of the building dates from between the 9th and 13th centuries, although much was rebuilt in the Gothic style after the 1356 earthquake. Return to the MS Royal Crown for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure. Set sail this evening whilst we enjoy Welcome Drinks & Dinner. Day 3 Strasbourg, France. Arrive this morning and after breakfast join a guided tour which will introduce us to the delights of Strasbourg including the fascinating old quarter. Start with the Quai de la Petite France where the River Ill splits into a number of canals, see the Ponts Couverts, a series of wooden bridges dating back to the 13th century, the Place Gutenberg and the Cathedral of Notre Dame, the tallest Medieval building in Europe. After lunch on board, enjoy an afternoon at leisure or alternatively join an optional scenic tour along Alsace s Route des Vins which will include a tasting of the region s splendid wines. Day 4 Baden-Baden, Germany. After breakfast we will drive inland to the beautiful spa town of Baden-Baden. This elegant Belle Epoque resort is one of Germany s best kept secrets. The spa assembly rooms and famous casino form the focal point of the town, both architecturally and socially. The old quarter is full of charming houses, exclusive boutiques and cafes and is fully pedestrianised. After a guided tour there will be some free time to wander around this remarkable town which somehow manages to retain ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS n The world-renowned Spa town of Baden-Baden n Historic Heidelberg and its dramatic castle n The ancient city of Worms and St Peter s Cathedral n Sailing the beautiful Rhine Gorge n Exclusive visit to the 14th century Namedy Castle n Wine tasting at the Heymann-Loewenstein Estate at Winningen its old world charm and yet be very much of the 21st century. Return to the vessel for a late lunch and sail this afternoon towards Mannheim. Day 5 Heidelberg. From our berth in Mannheim, we visit nearby Heidelberg where we have a day to enjoy this most picturesque and romantic of German cities which is home to Germany s oldest university, dating back to A morning tour will include the castle, a dramatically sited red sandstone ruin that dominates the city, the old town with its famous market place and the city gates. Return to the ship for a late lunch and sail on this evening towards Worms. Day 6 Worms. This morning we will depart for a walking tour of this ancient city which can trace its beginnings from the earliest civilisations. Famous for its history and fine architecture, Worms is where, in 1521, Martin Luther refused to recant his teachings. The place where Luther entered the Medieval city is marked by the beautiful St. Martins Gate. Our tour will also include the majestic St Peter s Cathedral, one of three Romanesque imperial cathedrals in Germany. We also visit the Jewish quarter of the city. In the Middle Ages, the vibrant Jewish community of Worms was highly regarded and known as the Jerusalem of the Rhine. After lunch on board this afternoon is at leisure or you may wish to join the optional visit to the Heylshof Museum which houses Germany s largest private art collection of the late 19th century. Day 7 Rudesheim & Boppard. This morning there will be a choice of included tours, you can join a guided walking tour of the vibrant riverside town of Rudesheim, including a visit to the fascinating Siegfried s Musical Instrument Museum which houses one of the world s largest self-playing instruments. Alternatively, join the excursion to nearby Vollrads Castle. This grand estate has been the Greiffendau residence since the 14th century and the making of wine on this site can be traced back to We will enjoy a visit to the Vinothek to sample some of their splendid wines. Return to the MS Royal Crown and sail on towards Boppard. This section of the Rhine is regarded by many as the most romantic with its cliff hugging castles and vine clad hills. In the late afternoon we arrive at Boppard and enjoy some free time ashore in this pretty town. Later continue our sailing on to Koblenz for an overnight mooring. Day 8 Koblenz & Burg Namedy. After breakfast we depart for a walking tour of this historic commercial centre before travelling the short distance by coach to Namedy Castle. This magnificent royal residence was built by the Hausmann Knights of Andernach in the 14th century. Princess Heide 18

19 PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy SPECIAL OFFER SAVE 200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Brochure Special Offer Cat Deck Price Price Junior Suite Select Superior Suite Select Deluxe Suite Select Premium Suite Select Royal Suite Panorama Deluxe Suite for sole use Select Baden Baden von Hohenzollern is opening the doors of her home exclusively for our guests. Enjoy a tour and some free time to wander about the castle s interesting rooms, hidden nooks and gardens, followed by a concert of Chopin s piano music. After lunch on board there will be an excursion to a stunning winery in Winningen. We will visit one of the most reputed wineries, the Heymann-Loewenstein Estate, and sample some of its excellent wines. Day 9 Cologne. Arrive in Cologne this morning and depart on a guided tour to see the city s famous cathedral. The cathedral is the largest Gothic church in northern Europe with a total area of almost 8000 square metres, room for more than 20,000 people and the second tallest spire and largest facade in the world. Afterwards visit a Brauhaus to sample some of the local Kolsch beer. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure and sail in the early evening towards Arnhem. Day 10 Arnhem. After a relaxing morning cruising we will arrive into Arnhem at lunchtime. Arnhem is well known because of the airborne paratrooper landings and the battles around the bridge over the Rhine. On the town side of the bridge stands a monument commemorating the British forces. Today there will be a choice of two included excursions. The first option is an excursion to the Airborne Museum at Villa Hartenstein, the Allied headquarters during the Battle of Arnhem, and nowadays dedicated to the historic military Operation Market Garden in World War II. Alternatively, visit the Palace of Het Loo, the favoured summer residence of the Dutch Royal family from 1686 to Day 11 Amsterdam. After breakfast explore the city of the Golden Age on a guided tour which will include the incomparable and newly reopened Rijksmuseum with its splendid collection of old masters. Return to the vessel for lunch. This afternoon is at leisure or you may wish to join one of the optional tours. Choose between a visit to the world famous Bloemenmarkt, one of the city s most colourful attractions, or for art lovers a visit to the Van Gogh Museum, which houses some of the world s largest collection of works by the artist. In the early evening there will be a classical performance on board by a string quartet followed by the Farewell Gala Dinner. Day 12 Amsterdam to London. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your return scheduled flight to London. Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 11 nights aboard the MS Royal Crown on a full board basis, house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, shore excursions, Cruise Director, Tour Manager, Guest Speaker, gratuities, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. Not Included: Travel insurance, excursions shown as optional. MONTREUX, SWITZERLAND 6 th to 9 th May 2018 Join us before your cruise for a three night stay in the lakeside resort of Montreux in Switzerland. Montreux offers many sightseeing options to fill your free time, perhaps take a boat trip on the lake, visit the impressive Chateau Chillon, or explore further afield by taking the cog railway from Montreux to Rocher de Naye for spectacular views and hiking opportunities. We will be based at the elegant and centrally located Grande Hotel Suisse Majestic, a four star property. The hotel was built in 1870 in the Belle Epoque style by Eugène Jost and was entirely renovated in Located in the heart of Montreux close to the railway station, the hotel has 155 comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, Satellite TV, air-conditioning, minibar, safe, en-suite bathroom with shower & bathtub and hairdryer. The hotel facilities include an intimate bar and restaurant 45 which offers dazzling views of the Swiss Alps and the Lake. THE ITINERARY PRE-CRUISE EXTENSION Day 1 London to Geneva, Switzerland. Fly by scheduled flight and on arrival connect with the airport train link directly to Montreux centre. Your luggage will be transported separately to the hotel. This evening your Tour Manager will host a welcome drink and introduce you to the sightseeing options to make the most of your stay. Enjoy dinner at the hotel. Day 2 Montreux. Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and a morning at leisure. This afternoon join a half day tour to the lovely town of Gstaad. The journey there and back is on the Golden Pass train and offers wonderful views of the lake, small villages and meadows. On arrival you will visit a local cheese cave, meet the owner of this small scale cooperative and discuss all aspects of cheese making, as well as sampling their delicious products. Afterwards enjoy some free time in the town to explore and shop, returning by train in the late afternoon. Day 3 Montreux. After a morning at leisure depart on an excursion to the nearby Lavaux Vineyards. Swiss wines are highly rated but seldom exported due to the nature of small local production and limited supplies. Today we will visit several small cooperatives to meet the owners, visit their cellars, sample the wines and enjoy the wonderful scenery of this region. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure followed by dinner. Day 4 Montreux to Basle. After a morning at leisure we will transfer to Basle (approx. 3 hours) and embark the MS Royal Crown. Prices per person Based on double occupancy Comfort Twin/Double Room Mountain View 925 Deluxe Twin/Double Room Lake View 1025 Comfort Single Room Mountain View 1395 Deluxe Double for Sole Use Lake View 1595 Price Includes: Three nights at the Grande Hotel Suisse Majestic, breakfast daily, dinner on days 1 and 3 (three course set menu), train transfer from Geneva airport to Montreux, luggage porterage from airport to hotel, coach transfer from hotel to vessel, tours as described, Riveria Pass (pass confers a 50% discount off the local boats and certain museums and local attraction fees, as well as free travel on local buses and trains), Tour Manager, gratuities. Not Included: Travel insurance, meals other than those stated. SPLENDOURS OF THE RHINE +44 (0)

20 ACROSS EUROPE BY RIVER A journey from Amsterdam to the Black Sea with guest performances by London Festival Opera 3 rd to 26 th June & 11 th September to 4 th October 2018 NORTH SEA THE NETHERLANDS Amsterdam BELGIUM Cologne Rhine GERMANY Koblenz Rudesheim Mainz Main Bamberg Wurzburg Miltenberg Wertheim Nuremberg CZECH REPUBLIC Regensberg Passau Melk WACHAU VALLEY AUSTRIA SLOVAKIA Bratislava DANUBE Vienna Danube BEND Budapest HUNGARY CROATIA Pecs Kalocsa Mohacs Osijek Belgrade SERBIA IRON GATES ROMANIA Bucharest BULGARIA Tulcea Cernavoda BLACK SEA Danube Constanta Rousse Veliko Tarnovo DANUBE DELTA Join us aboard the charming MS Royal Crown for our ultimate grand tour of Europe as we sail clear across the continent, visit eight countries, travel more than 2200 miles and yet only have to unpack once. This is the perfect trip for those who enjoy seeing something new every day, as the MS Royal Crown transports you in considerable comfort between great cities, towns and villages, past ever-changing landscapes where the slow speed of the vessel allows us to absorb the views of town and country. from travelling across Europe observing everyday life on the banks of the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. You can let the world slip by as you relax on the sun deck or in the lounge and delight in aweinspiring panoramic views of the passing scenery. Guided excursions with excellent local guides and interesting talks by our Guest Speakers will create an enjoyable, informative and lively atmosphere on board as we sail along the European waterways. Each port of call has its own unique character waiting to be discovered whilst on one of our guided excursions. From historic locations to iconic buildings, our itinerary is brimming with highlights including the grand cities of Vienna and Budapest; the picturesque towns along the Rhine including Miltenberg and Rudesheim; wine tasting in Wurzburg and music performances including an organ recital in Passau. There will of course also be plenty of time to relax on board and enjoy some truly beautiful scenery especially whilst cruising through the dramatic Rhine Gorge and through the spectacular Iron Gates. If you have never experienced a river journey it is difficult to explain the sheer pleasure that comes Melk Abbey 20

21 ACROSS EUROPE BY RIVER Germany s picturesque Rhine Valley The half-timbered town hall, Bamberg Prince Bishop s Residenz Palace, Wurzburg THE ITINERARY Day 1 London/Manchester/ Bristol/Edinburgh to Amsterdam, Netherlands. Fly by scheduled flight and transfer to the MS Royal Crown. Moor overnight in Amsterdam. Day 2 Amsterdam. After breakfast there will be a choice of tours. Depart for a visit to the Rijksmuseum, arguably Amsterdam s most important art venue which houses some of the greatest examples of Western European painting and decorative arts and boasts works by Vermeer, Goya and Rubens. Here, Rembrandt s famous The Night Watch hangs in the Hall of Honour. Alternatively, you may prefer to take a canal cruise and admire the city from a glass-top boat as you glide past 17th century homes, churches and 16th century merchant houses. Return to the MS Royal Crown for lunch and sail towards Cologne. This evening join your fellow travellers for Welcome Drinks and Dinner on board. Day 3 Cologne, Germany. This morning we will cruise the legendary Rhine passing Duisburg and Dusseldorf before arriving in Cologne for a tour to see the city s famous cathedral. The cathedral is the largest Gothic church SPECIAL GUEST PERFORMANCE BY LONDON FESTIVAL OPERA We are delighted to announce that London Festival Opera will perform a series of concerts during our time in Melk and Vienna, including a recital of arias and ensembles from Mozart s The Marriage of Figaro, Cosi Fan Tutte, Don Giovanni and The Magic Flute in the beautiful and historic setting of Melk Abbey. They will also present an Opera Soirée of Verdi, Bizet, Offenbach and Puccini and A Night in Vienna in costume, featuring the works of Mozart, Johann Strauss and Lehár aboard the MS Royal Crown. in northern Europe, with a total area of almost 8,000 square metres and room for more than 20,000 people. It also features the second tallest spire and largest facade in the world. Afterwards visit a Brauhaus to sample some of the local Kolsch beer. Day 4 Koblenz & Rudesheim. Arrive in Koblenz for a morning walking tour of this historic commercial centre. Return to the ship and sail mid-morning through the dramatic Rhine Gorge to Rudesheim, passing romantic castles, lush vineyards and the infamous Lorelei rock. Arrive into Rudesheim in the late afternoon and on arrival we take the Winzerexpress mini-train to visit Siegfried s Musical Instrument Museum, home to one of Germany s most fascinating collections of automated musical instruments. Return to the ship for dinner, after which there will be some free time for an independent visit to the town s lively Drosselgasse to sample the famous Rudesheimer Kaffee. Day 5 Mainz. Arrive this morning in atmospheric Mainz where our walking tour will include the Hoefchen ( Little Court ), residence of the city s archbishops until the 15th century, the Kirschgarten with its romantic half-timbered houses and Marian-Fountain. Our tour ends with a visit to the Johan Gutenberg Museum. Day 6 Miltenberg & Wertheim. During our guided walking tour this morning, see the pretty Franconian town of Miltenberg, known for its half-timbered Medieval houses. Sail during lunch to beautiful Wertheim and enjoy some free time in this charming market town. Day 7 Wurzburg. Arrive this morning in historic Wurzburg, the wine capital of Franconia. Our guided tour of this lovely town includes the magnificent Prince Bishop s Residenz Palace with a wine tasting of local wines in the splendid cellars of the Residenz. Also see the old town with its collection of churches which range in style from Romanesque to Gothic, Renaissance to Baroque, before returning to the MS Royal Crown for lunch as we sail to Bamberg. Day 8 Bamberg. This morning, enter the Main Danube Canal at Bamberg, one of Germany s most beautiful historic towns. Its geographical location, some 40 miles north of Nuremberg was a key factor in preserving its +44 (0)

22 The Iron Gates Gorge Schonbrunn Palace, Vienna Cathedral of Saint Sava, Belgrade The The Old Casino, Constanta Parliament Building, Budapest magnificent architectural heritage from the ravages of war. Every European style from the Romanesque onwards has left its mark, each bequeathing at least one major building. We arrive around midday, and after lunch on board we will have a walking tour of this beautiful Medieval city. Day 9 Nuremberg. The city of Nuremberg s long and sometimes troubled history has left its mark on the city and there is plenty to discover during our morning tour. Three towering castles overlook Nuremberg and its old city which is contained within vast walls is a joy to explore. Visit the World War II sites, including the Third Reich Party Rally Grounds. Discover the city s spectacular Medieval architecture, including the 900 year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle and more. Sail at lunchtime and continue cruising through the highest point of any commercial waterway in Europe, 1331 feet above sea level. Day 10 Regensburg. Early this morning we enter the Danube River, arriving in Regensburg after breakfast. Join a guided stroll around historic Regensburg, and see the highlights such as the Old Town Hall, the World Heritage listed city centre and the ancient Romanesque Porta Praetoria. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon is at leisure to relax on board or explore the town further. Day 11 Passau. Arrive this morning in Passau, where the Inn and Ilz rivers join the Danube. Our guided walking tour will include the old town of this Bavarian city and the breathtaking Cathedral of St. Stephan which contains one of the world s largest church pipe organs. Enjoy an organ recital before returning to the vessel for lunch. This afternoon we will sail towards Austria. Day 12 Melk & the Wachau Valley to Vienna, Austria. This morning we will reach the picturesque Wachau Valley, famous for its wine. We will moor in Melk under the shadow of the great Baroque Abbey, situated on a cliff high above the Danube. Enjoy a guided tour of the abbey followed by a performance by London Festival Opera featuring aria ensembles from The Marriage of Figaro, Cosi Fan Tutte, and Don Giovanni. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon we sail through the beautiful Wachau Valley towards Vienna. Day 13 Vienna. A morning city tour of Austria s elegant capital will take us around the famous Ringstrasse, and the Old Quarter including St Stephan s cathedral. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon is at leisure to explore this majestic city further. In the early evening there will be an onboard costumed performance by London Festival Opera, featuring an Opera Soirée with highlights from Verdi, Bizet, Offenbach and Puccini followed by dinner. Day 14 Vienna. After breakfast join a tour to see Schonbrunn Palace and Gardens, the favourite summer residence of Maria Theresa. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. In the early evening there will be a performance of A Night in Vienna by London Festival Opera followed by dinner. Day 15 Bratislava, Slovakia. Arrive this morning in the Slovak capital of Bratislava for a guided walking tour of the city, formerly known as Pressburg and a former capital of Hungary. See the old quarter, the ornate Baroque Palace and the ancient city gates. Finish your tour with a visit to the beautiful Klarissen Church where a string quartet will perform a concert of music by Dvorak and Mozart. Return to the ship and cruise to Budapest arriving in the late evening. Day 16 Budapest, Hungary. We have the day to explore Hungary s elegant capital. Spend the morning on an excursion that will include the old quarter, the Matthias Church and the Fishermen s Bastion. Return to the ship for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure. Tonight there will be an optional evening of music ashore, depending on schedules this will be either at the State Opera House or the Erkel Theatre. Sail in the late evening. Day 17 Kalocsa. Arrive this morning in charming Kalocsa, renowned for paprika production. Our tour of the Puszta district will include the town and a spectacular display of Hungarian horsemanship. Depart this afternoon for a relaxing cruise along the beautiful Danube, arriving in Mohacs in the early evening. Day 18 Pecs. Depart after breakfast for a morning tour of Pecs. The city of Pecs enjoys a fine position on the slopes of the Mecsek Hills and our guided tour will feature the sites associated with the city s Roman Ottoman Hapsburg past, as well as a short organ recital in the splendid Pecs Cathedral. 22

23 Day 19 Belgrade, Serbia. Spend the morning in this interesting city. A halfday tour will include the city s main attractions, including the Kalemegdan fortress as it looms over the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, Saint Sava Cathedral, the largest Orthodox Church in the world, and Tito s Memorial. Our tour will finish with a superb local folklore performance before returning to the ship for lunch. This afternoon is at leisure, or you may like to join an optional excursion to the historic Serbian towns of Oplenac and Topola. Day 20 Cruising through the Iron Gates. Today the scenery becomes truly spectacular as you cruise through the Iron Gates, a narrow Danube gorge between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains. Day 21 Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria. From Svistov, we drive to Veliko Tarnovo, the capital of the second Bulgarian Kingdom from 1187 to The city formed a natural fortress, located on three hills surrounding the Yantra River and a palace, fortifications and churches were built into the terrain. Across the river, ancient stone houses seemingly perched on top of each other rise up the steep riverbank. After lunch in a local restaurant, we will visit the museum town of Arbanassi before we rejoin the MS Royal Crown in Rousse and sail in the evening. Day 22 Constanta, Romania. Early this morning, arrive in Cernavoda at the entrance to the Black Sea Canal. Drive to nearby Constanta, a popular resort city. Its colourful history dates back to ancient Greek and Roman times. On a guided tour we will see the Museum of National History and Archaeology and the Museum of Ethnography. Return to the ship for a late lunch and sail in the afternoon along the snaking Danube as we make our way to the Black Sea. Day 23 The Black Sea & Tulcea. Awake early today to experience a sunrise cruise. Weather conditions permitting we hope to make a short voyage to the periphery of the Black Sea. Later we cruise to Tulcea, situated at the entrance to the Danube Delta and enjoy an afternoon boat trip into the delta wetlands. Tonight join your fellow travellers for a Gala Farewell Dinner. Day 24 Bucharest to London/Manchester/Bristol/Edinburgh. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your return scheduled flight to the UK. Great Black Cormorants, Danube Delta PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy SPECIAL OFFER SAVE 500 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Cat Junior Suite Superior Suite Deluxe Suite Premium Suite Royal Suite Deluxe Suite for sole use Deck Select Select Select Select Panorama Select Brochure Price Special Offer Price Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 23 nights aboard the MS Royal Crown on a full board basis, house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, shore excursions, music events as described, performances by London Festival Opera, Cruise Director, Tour Manager, Guest Speaker, gratuities, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. Not Included: Travel insurance, optional evening ashore in Budapest, optional tour in Belgrade. BUCHAREST 26 th to 29 th June & 4 th to 7 th October 2018 Bucharest is known for its wide, tree-lined boulevards, glorious Belle Epoque buildings and a reputation for the high life (which in the 1900s earned its nickname of Little Paris ). During our stay in this dynamic and fascinating capital, we will visit its most iconic structure, Snagov Monastery the massive, communist-era Parliament Palace, which has 1,100 rooms. We will also explore Old Bucharest in the nearby historic Lipscani district. We will spend a day outside of the city for our visit to the mysterious Snagov Monastery which is situated north of Bucharest on an island in the middle of Snagov Lake, and said to be the burial place of the Prince of Wallachia, Vlad Tepes III, a folk hero in Romania who was revered for his leadership and fierce protection of his subjects. We will also visit Mogosoaia Palace, with its notable architectural influences from the Venetian and Ottoman eras. Our accommodation will be the four star Park Inn by Radisson, a comfortable and centrally located hotel. The Itinerary POST-CRUISE EXTENSION Day 1 Cernavoda to Bucharest. Disembark the MS Royal Crown in Cernavoda and transfer to Bucharest (approx. 3 hour drive). On arrival there will be a panoramic city tour of the city s highlights. Afterwards we will relax over lunch at the Phoenicia Restaurant. Continue to the Park Inn by Radisson for a three night stay. Day 2 Discover Bucharest. After breakfast we set off for a visit to the Parliament Palace, the second largest administrative building in the world at 3.77 million square feet. This gargantuan construction is Ceausescu s most infamous creation and makes for a fascinating tour. After our tour we will enjoy lunch in Carul cu Bere, Bucharest s oldest beer house, with its colourful Belle Epoque interior, stained-glass windows and classic Romanian fare. This afternoon enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town, including a visit to Stravropoleos Church, Lipscani Lane, Manuc s Inn and the Old Princely Court. The remainder of the day and evening will be at leisure. Day 3 Bucharest to Snagov to Mogosoaia. After breakfast we will depart for our visit to Snagov Monastery. This monastery was founded in 1408 by Mircea the Elder, Vlad Dracul s grandfather. Vlad, also known as Vlad Tepes is the historical character on whom Bram Stoker s book Dracula is based and is said to be buried here by the monks in We will enjoy lunch in a local restaurant and continue to visit Mogosoaia Palace, built in the 17th century in the Romanian Renaissance style. Return to Bucharest for an evening at leisure. Day 4 Bucharest to London/Manchester/Bristol/Edinburgh. After breakfast at your hotel there will be free time to relax, sightsee or shop at leisure before we transfer to the airport for return scheduled flight to the UK. Prices per person Based on double occupancy Twin: 495 Single: 625 Price Includes: Three nights accommodation at the Park Inn by Radisson Hotel on bed and breakfast basis, lunch on days 2 & 3, drinks with included meals (wine/ beer/soft drinks), all sightseeing and entrances as described, transfers, services of a local English speaking guide throughout. Not Included: Travel insurance, dinners, lunch on day 4. NB. Minimum numbers apply. ACROSS EUROPE BY RIVER +44 (0)

24 THE ENCHANTING EAST A voyage along the Danube from the Delta wetlands to Budapest 26 th June to 5 th July 2018 Join us as we navigate the Danube River from the delta in the east to Budapest. We will travel through the heart of Europe visiting Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia and Hungary. This is one of the world s great journeys, following as it does one of the most important trade routes since the earliest of times, linking the east with the west. We will journey through some of Europe s most beautiful landscapes, from the delta lands of the Danube to the plains of Hungary, visiting the great THE ITINERARY HUNGARY Budapest historic cities of Bucharest, Belgrade, and Budapest as well as picturesque riverside towns. From the great comfort of our vessel we will cruise effortlessly, enjoying the varied scenery and architecture whilst learning more about a region that has seen more of its fair share of conflicts, revolutions and wars. The combination of modern and traditional culture, wine tasting and folklore along the way makes for a fascinating trip. Pecs Mohacs Danube Novi Sad Belgrade SERBIA IRON GATES BULGARIA ROMANIA Oltenita Bucharest Danube Cernavoda Rousse Veliko Tarnovo Tulcea BLACK SEA DANUBE DELTA Day 1 London to Bucharest, Romania. Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to Cernavoda (approximately 3 hours) and embark the MS Royal Crown. Sail this evening. Day 2 Danube Delta. The vast Danube Delta is one of the most important wetlands left in Europe. From the port of Tulcea, join a boat trip to explore the delta. Sail in the afternoon. Day 3 Bucharest. Arrive this morning in the port of Oltenita for a drive to Bucharest where we will explore the main sights of the city and see the boulevards with their decidedly French style. After lunch in a local restaurant there will be a choice of afternoon visits. You may wish to visit the Parliament Palace, the second largest administrative building in the world at 3.77 million square feet. This gargantuan construction is Ceausescu s most infamous creation, and makes for a fascinating tour (please note that closure at short notice is possible if unannounced official functions are taking place). Alternatively, you may prefer to visit the fascinating Village Museum, an open-air ethnographic museum located in the Herăstrău Park, showcasing traditional Romanian village life. We will re-join the MS Royal Crown in Giurgiu and sail on to Rousse for an overnight mooring. After dinner this evening we will be entertained by a lively Bulgarian folk troupe. Day 4 Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria. From Rousse we depart by coach for a fullday tour to Veliko Tarnovo, the capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom from 1187 to The city formed a natural fortress, located on three hills surrounding the Yantra River. A palace, fortifications and churches were built into the terrain. Across the river, ancient stone houses seemingly perched on top of each other rise up the steep riverbank. After lunch in a local restaurant visit the museum town of Arbanassi, famous for its 17th and 18th architecture and the unique Church of the Nativity of Christ. Day 5 Cruising through the Iron Gates. Today the scenery becomes truly spectacular as we cruise through the Iron Gates, a narrow Danube gorge between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains. Day 6 Belgrade, Serbia. Spend the morning in this interesting city. A halfday tour highlights the city s main attractions, including the Kalemegdan Fortress as it looms over the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, Saint Sava Cathedral, the largest Orthodox Church in the world, and Tito s Memorial. Our tour will finish with a superb local folklore performance before returning to the ship for lunch. This afternoon is at leisure, or you may like to join our optional tour to the historic Serbian towns of Oplenac and Topola. At Oplenac we will visit the outstanding complex of the Karadjordjevic Dynasty, including the Mausoleum and the Church of St George with its beautiful mosaic interior. The entire area of the mosaic is 3,500 square metres with 40 million various coloured pieces of glass which have 15 thousand different varieties of colour. On the surrounding hills, King Peter I planted vineyards from which they made superb wines, and Topola is still renowned for its wine production. Here we have a tour of the historic centre and a wine tasting before heading back to Belgrade. Sail in the evening. Day 7 Novi Sad. Following the destruction of the three main bridges by the NATO bombing campaign in 1999, the city of Novi Sad, in the Serbian northern province of Vojvodina, has returned to normal after much rebuilding. The city is rich in historic buildings including the fortress, Bishop s House, Clock Tower and numerous churches, some of which will be seen on our morning tour. Our exploration of Greater Novi Sad includes a wine tasting in nearby Sremski Karlovic where we sample some excellent wines of the former Yugoslavia. Day 8 Pecs, Hungary. From the port of Mohacs, depart after breakfast for a morning tour to the university town of Pecs, a settlement dating back to Roman times. Our visit will feature the sites associated with the city s Roman Ottoman Hapsburg past, as well as a short organ recital in the splendid Pecs Cathedral. Return to the ship for lunch and the afternoon is at leisure to explore ashore or relax on board. Alternatively you might wish to join our optional afternoon excursion to nearby Siklós Castle, one of the best-preserved castle palaces in Hungary. Day 9 Budapest, Hungary. Arrive this morning and explore Hungary s elegant capital. Our guided tour will include the old quarter, a visit to the Matthias Church and the Fisherman s Bastion, from where there are stunning views of the city. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon is at leisure to relax or explore ashore at your own pace. Tonight enjoy your Farewell Dinner on board, followed by music performed by a local gypsy band. Day 10 Budapest to London. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return scheduled flight to London. 24

25 Xxxxxxx Danube Delta TRANSYLVANIA & ROYAL ROMANIA 20 th to 26 th June 2018 Before embarking the MS Royal Crown we are offering the opportunity to explore Transylvania which is located in central Romania, a region of exquisite countryside surrounded by the arc of the dramatic Carpathian mountain chain. This region is home to some of Europe s best-preserved Medieval towns and stunning castles. THE ITINERARY PRE-CRUISE EXTENSION Day 1 London to Sibiu, Romania. Fly by scheduled indirect flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to your four-star hotel for a three night stay. Tonight gather for the traditional bread and salt welcome, followed by a Welcome Drink and Dinner at your hotel. THE ENCHANTING EAST Xxxxxxx Day 2 Sibiu & Sibiel. After breakfast join a walking tour of colourful Sibiu followed by some free time before lunch in the old city. Later we will drive to Sibiel and visit a unique and superb museum of glass painted icons, located in the old village church. This evening, enjoy a traditional dinner during which we will be able to talk to our local hosts about Romanian daily life in a Transylvanian village. Budapest Day 3 Sibiu & Alba Iulia. After breakfast we depart for Alba Iulia, the town where Ferdinand and Marie were crowned Kings of the Great Romania. On arrival we visit the stunning White Citadel and the Coronation Cathedral, as well as the Unification Museum. Lunch will be in a local restaurant, followed by some time here at leisure. Return to Sibiu and dinner this evening will be at your hotel. Day 4 Biertan, Sighisoara & Brasov. After breakfast depart for picturesque Biertan where the first glimpse of the town s Medieval church is unforgettable; it towers over the square below, surrounded by vividly painted houses and backed by vineyards. On arrival we visit the UNESCO 14th century fortified church, once the home to the Lutheran Bishop of Transylvania. Continue on to Sighisoara and on arrival explore the Old Town. Enjoy lunch in Dracula s House restaurant followed by some free time. Continue on to Brasov where we will be staying for three nights. Dinner this evening will be at a local restaurant. Day 5 Azuga, Sinaia & Rasnov. After breakfast depart for a city tour of Brasov, including the City Hall Square, St Nicholas Church and the Old City. Afterwards we continue to Azuga in Prahova Valley, home of the Royal Cellar which is the wine supplier for the Royal family. We will stop at a local vineyard for lunch and enjoy some wine tasting. Continue on to see the fairy-tale Peles Castle, built by King Carol I in the 19th century. Afterwards we head back towards Brasov with a stop enroute at the Rasnov Citadel, (please note that the entrance to the citadel is a 15 minute uphill walk). Xxxxxxx PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy SPECIAL OFFER SAVE 200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Brochure Special Offer Cat Deck Price Price Junior Suite Select Superior Suite Select Deluxe Suite Select Premium Suite Select Royal Suite Panorama Deluxe Suite for sole use Select Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 9 nights aboard the MS Royal Crown on a full board basis, house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, shore excursions, Cruise Director, Tour Manager, Guest Speaker, gratuities, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. Not Included: Travel insurance, excursions shown as optional on days 6 & 8. Pecs Day 6 Brasov. After breakfast, visit the Black Church, followed by some free time in the Old City. Our Farewell Dinner tonight will be in the nearby resort town of Poiana Brasov. Day 7 Brasov to Cernavoda. After breakfast depart for a visit to Bran to see the world famous Dracula s Castle, built as a fortress in 1212 by the Knights of the Teutonic Order. Vlad Tepes, better known as Vlad the Impaler, used the castle as headquarters for his incursions into Transylvania. We then depart for Ploiesti and enjoy lunch on arrival before continuing on our journey to Cernavoda, where we will embark the MS Royal Crown. Prices per person Based on double occupancy Twin: 795 Single: 1095 Price Includes: Six nights hotel accommodation at four-star hotels as described, meals as described, wine & soft drinks with included lunches & dinners, excursions, gratuities. Not Included: Travel insurance, lunch on day (0)

26 UNDISCOVERED HOLLAND An exploration of the lesser known landscapes of Northern Holland including Lake Ijsselmeer & Friesland 1 st to 11 th September 2018 Join the MS Royal Crown in Amsterdam and discover the rural tranquillity of Holland s northernmost provinces. During our 10 night cruise we will explore the rich history and unique flora and fauna of this peaceful and unspoilt area. This is true Holland as the native Dutch would describe it, and the picturesque villages and towns we will visit offer insights into this region s glorious past. THE NETHERLANDS We begin our journey in Amsterdam, city of the Golden Age with its artistic and historic treasures. We then cruise north to discover the shores of the Moselle Zuider Zee, sailing across the Ijsselmeer, the largest freshwater lake in the Netherlands. We will spend some time in the ancient seaport of Harlingen with its age-old merchant houses, canals and atmospheric inner harbours, from where we can visit nearby Leeuwarden, famous as the birthplace of the WWI spy, Mata Hari, and Europe s Culture Capital for Friesland has always been known for its fishing villages, livestock and arable farming and still today we will be able to witness the piebald beef cattle and proud black Frisian horses grazing in the ever-surrounding fields. Also included are visits to the Afsluitdijk, Europe s longest dam, the Woudagemaal Steam Pumping Station and Batavia Shipyard, all great testaments to the immense engineering and building achievements of the Dutch nation. NORTH SEA Enkhuizen Alkmaar Amsterdam Keukenhof Harlingen & Friesland Franeker Lemmer Lelystad Edam & Volendam Rhine THE ITINERARY Day 1 London Heathrow, Bristol, Glasgow or London St Pancras to Amsterdam, Holland. Fly by scheduled flight or travel by train. On arrival transfer to the MS Royal Crown and embark. Amsterdam Day 2 Amsterdam. After breakfast on board, depart for a visit to the Rijksmuseum, arguably Amsterdam s most important art venue. Housing some of the greatest examples of Western European painting and decorative arts, it boasts works by Vermeer, Goya and Rubens. Here, Rembrandt s famous The Night Watch hangs in the Hall of Honour. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at leisure or alternatively you may wish to join the included excursion to the imposing Muiden Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The castle was built around 1285 by Count Floris V, an ally of the French Court and later of the British King Edward. Our tour here takes us through the impressive Knight s Hall, towers and dungeon, as well as the Armoury with its stunning armour collection. Hoorn Day 3 Amsterdam. This morning we will depart for a canal cruise, one of the most enjoyable ways to see this unique city. Afterwards we continue to the Van Gogh Museum which houses one of the world s largest collection of works by the artist, including Almond Blossom and The Bedroom. Return to the MS Royal Crown for a late lunch and some time at leisure before we sail on towards Hoorn for an overnight mooring. Day 4 Alkmaar. Morning excursion to Alkmaar, aptly titled the city of cheese in Holland. This engaging city holds a special place in Dutch hearts as the first town in 1573 to repel occupying Spanish troops, locals opened the locks and flooded the area with sea water, forcing the invaders to retreat. On arrival we will visit the beautiful old centre with its historic monuments, including the St. Laurenskerk, the oldest church in the city. Our tour will end with a visit to a cheese specialist for a tasting. Return to the MS Royal Crown in Hoorn for lunch on board and enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore this pretty town independently. 26

27 Frisian Horse UNDISCOVERED HOLLAND Harlingen VOC Ship, Batavia Day 5 Edam, Volendam & Marken. Our morning tour will enable you to experience three unique communities of the Zuiderzee. Our first call will be at Edam, a tranquil little town with drawbridges across canals and charming historic houses with lovely facades. We continue on to Volendam, which has always been a fishermen s village, and even since the closing of the Zuider Zee in 1932, the bustling harbour area with its many boats is still a major attraction. Our third visit will be to the fascinating village of Marken, which was separated from the mainland after a storm surge in the 13th century. Here the houses and the traditional costumes are reminiscent of the past. In the old days the island was flooded quite regularly and for this reason, houses were built on stilts and on mounds. Return to Hoorn and sail in the afternoon towards Enkhuizen. Day 6 Enkhuizen. After breakfast, enjoy a walking tour of this picturesque former seaport, considered by many to be the prettiest town in Holland with its well preserved buildings dating back to the 15-17th century, and one of the largest marinas in the Netherlands. Our tour ends with a visit to the fascinating Zuiderzee Museum which is dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage and maritime history from the old Zuiderzee region. Return to the ship for lunch and enjoy some free time here before our afternoon sailing to Harlingen. Day 7 Harlingen & Friesland. After breakfast today there will be a guided tour of Harlingen, located in the Wadden region, and one of the oldest seaports of the Netherlands. On a walking tour we will explore this city full of merchant houses, inner harbours, bridges and canals, including a visit to The Hannemahuis Museum, one of the oldest merchant houses in Harlingen and now a museum dedicated to the history of the city. After lunch on board there will be a choice of included excursions. Choose from a boat trip to nearby Vlieland, the smallest inhabited of the Dutch Wadden Islands with its tiny and beautiful village of Oost-Vlieland. Alternatively join a tour to the Stud Farm Het Swarte Paert to see the Frisian horse, a majestic breed which has been highly valued since Roman times. On our visit we will learn about the history, breeding and culture of this distinctive purebred. Early this evening, enjoy a tasting of delicious local cheese and potent Boomsma Beerenburger, a drink traditionally drunk neat from a shot glass, on board in the lounge. Day 8 Franeker and Leeuwarden. After breakfast today depart for a morning tour to see the longest dam in Europe, The Afsluitdijk (the Ijsselmeer Dam). This 32 kilometre long dam was built in 1932 and is still considered an architectural wonder of the world. Afterwards drive to nearby Franeker for a visit to the Eise Eisinga Planetarium, the oldest active planetarium in the world. See the extensive collection of historical astronomical instruments and visit the impressive interactive exposition Space. After our visit you can either return to the MS Royal Crown or continue on an extended tour to Leeuwarden, Europe s capital of culture 2018, and birthplace of the infamous WWI spy and exotic dancer, Margaretha Geertruida Zelle (Mata Hari). On arrival we will have a walking tour of the town, followed by a visit to see the fine collections of porcelain and stoneware at the Dutch Ceramic Museum, housed in a beautifully adorned palace where Princess Marie-Louise of Hesse-Cassel lived. Enjoy a late lunch on board and a relaxing afternoon cruise to Lemmer. Day 9 Lemmer & De Weerribben-Wieden National Park. After breakfast this morning we depart for nearby Woudagemaal to see the Steam Pumping Station. It is exceptional as the largest and most powerful steamdriven installation for hydraulic purposes ever built and is a masterpiece of the work of Dutch hydraulic engineers and architects. Alternatively, for those who prefer nature, there will be a visit to the nearby De Weerribben- Wieden National Park. On arrival enjoy a guided boat trip of this beautiful wetland region. Shaped by peat extraction from the 15th century, today the area covers 6000 hectares of nature, including reed beds, meadows and dense swamp forests. Return to the MS Royal Crown for a late lunch and some free time ashore before we sail on towards Lelystad. Day 10 Lelystad. Enjoy a morning cruising through this delightful area of Friesland. After we arrive into Lelystad, we will depart for a visit to the extraordinary Batavia Shipyard, which transports us back to the Golden Age of shipbuilding. The first show-stopping reconstruction was of the 17th century VOC ship the Batavia which after ten years in the making was completed in The Batavia was originally built in 1628 and destined to sail to and from the East Indies, but in June 1629 it was shipwrecked off the coast of Western Australia. Work is now underway on the reconstruction of De Zeven Provincien, a 17th century battleship once captained by Michiel de Ruyter. Return to the MS Royal Crown for lunch and sail on towards Amsterdam. Day 11 Amsterdam to London, Bristol or Glasgow. Disembark after breakfast and return to your chosen airport by scheduled flight or by train to London St Pancras. PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy SPECIAL OFFER SAVE 200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Brochure Special Offer Cat Deck Price Price Junior Suite Select Superior Suite Select Deluxe Suite Select Premium Suite Select Royal Suite Panorama Deluxe Suite for sole use Select Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel or Standard Premier/First Class travel by train, 10 nights aboard the MS Royal Crown on a full board basis, house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, shore excursions, Cruise Director, Tour Manager, Guest Speaker, gratuities, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. Not Included: Travel insurance. +44 (0)

28 EASTERN TREASURES A cultural exploration from the delta lands of the Danube to the plains of Hungary 4 th to 16 th October 2018 Join us for what promises to be a splendid journey as we navigate the Danube River from the delta in the east to Budapest. Travelling from the shores of the Black Sea to the heart of Europe we will visit Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia and Hungary. This is one of the world s great journeys, following as it does one of the most important trade routes since the earliest of times, linking the east with the west. For those who enjoy seeing something different every day, our floating hotel will transport you in considerable comfort between great cities, towns and villages. Past ever changing landscapes where the slow speed of the vessel allows us to absorb the magnificent views of town and country. If you have never experienced a journey on a modern river cruiser it is difficult to explain the sheer pleasure that comes from travelling through the heart of Europe observing everyday life on the Danube s banks. HUNGARY Budapest Pecs Kalocsa Mohacs Vukovar Danube Belgrade SERBIA IRON GATES BULGARIA ROMANIA Oltenita Bucharest Danube Cernavoda Rousse Veliko Tarnovo Tulcea BLACK SEA DANUBE DELTA Parliament Palace, Bucharest EXCLUSIVE PERFORMANCES BY SHERBAN LUPU We will be joined on board by Sherban Lupu, one of the world s leading performers of music by Romanian composer and virtuoso George Enescu. Romanianborn, Sherban studied at the Bucharest Conservatory with George Manoliu and later in London at the Guildhall School of Music, taking lessons and master classes with legendary violinists Yehudi Menuhin. He specialises in the music of his native Romania and Eastern Europe as well as the virtuoso romantic repertoire. ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS n Onboard musical repertoires by renowned violinist, Sherban Lupu n The rock monastery of St Demetrius Basarbovski in Bulgaria n Spectacular sailing through the Iron Gates n The wine region of Villany in Hungary n The historic city of Vukovar in Croatia n Hungarian horse display at Kalocsa n The Queen of the Danube, Budapest St Demetrius Basarbovski Monastery, Rousse 28

29 EASTERN TREASURES Church of St Peter and St Paul, Osijek Pelicans, Danube Delta The Village Museum, Bucharest Puszta Horse Show, Kalocsa Veliko Tarnovo THE ITINERARY Day 1 London to Bucharest, Romania. Fly by scheduled flight and transfer to the MS Royal Crown in Cernavoda (approx. 3 hour drive). Sail this evening. Day 2 Tulcea. Today we arrive in Tulcea, situated at the entrance to the Danube Delta. Enjoy a boat trip into the delta wetlands, famous for its birdlife. Sail in the early afternoon and after dinner this evening enjoy a recital by Sherban Lupu. Day 3 Bucharest. Arrive this morning in the port of Oltenita from where we drive to Bucharest. We will explore the main sights of the city and see the boulevards with their decidedly French style. After lunch in a local restaurant there will be a choice of afternoon visits. You may choose to visit the Parliament Palace, the second largest administrative building in the world at 3.77 million square feet. This gargantuan construction is Ceausescu s most infamous creation and makes for a fascinating tour. Alternatively, you may prefer to visit the unique Village Museum, an open-air ethnographic museum located in the Herastrau Park, showcasing traditional Romanian village life. The museum contains 272 authentic peasant farms and houses from all over Romania. After your tour depart for the port of Giurgiu to rejoin our vessel and sail on to Rousse for an overnight mooring. Day 4 Rousse, Bulgaria. After breakfast join a city tour of Rousse, birthplace of Nobel Prize winner for literature, Elias Canetti. After our short walking tour of the city centre we will drive a short distance to visit the Monastery of St Demetrius Basarbovski, a fascinating rock monastery dating back to the 12th century. Return to Rousse for a wine tasting session of some splendid Bulgarian wines. This afternoon is at leisure for individual exploration. With its stunning architecture, charming restaurants and shops, there is much to explore here. After dinner enjoy a performance by Sherban Lupu. Day 5 Veliko Tarnovo. Today we visit the city of Veliko Tarnovo, the capital of the second Bulgarian Kingdom from 1187 to The city formed a natural fortress, located on three hills surrounding the Yantra River. A palace, fortifications and churches were built into the terrain. Across the river, ancient stone houses seemingly perched on top of each other rise up the steep riverbank. After lunch in a local restaurant we visit the museum town of Arbanassi before re-joining the MS Royal Crown at Svistov. Day 6 Cruising Through the Iron Gates.Today the scenery becomes truly spectacular as we cruise through the Iron Gates, a narrow Danube gorge between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains. City Hall Square, Pecs +44 (0)

30 Chain Bridge and Parliament Building, Budapest Day 7 Belgrade, Serbia. We will spend the afternoon in this interesting city and our half-day tour will highlight the city s main attractions including the Kalemegdan Fortress as it looms over the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, Saint Sava Cathedral, the largest Orthodox Church in the world, and Tito s Memorial. Our tour will end with a spectacular folklore performance. Day 8 Vukovar, Croatia. Enjoy a relaxing morning cruising to Vukovar, an important regional centre on Croatia s eastern border. The city is renowned for the 87-day siege of Vukovar between August and November At the time, it was the fiercest and most protracted battle seen in Europe since On our afternoon guided tour here we will explore and learn about this city s distant and recent past, its brave defenders and peaceful restorations. We will visit Eltz castle, constructed in the mid-18th century by count Anzelmo Kazimir Eltz. It is one of the most prominent Baroque buildings in Croatia. Today it serves as the city museum after it was renovated from war damages. We will also visit the important Franciscan monastery and St Phillip and Jacob church the Franciscan monks left an indelible trace in Vukovar area as they played an important role in the religious and educational development of this town. After the tour there will be some free time here, or for those who wish there will be a visit to the Homeland War Memorial Centre, a fascinating museum dedicated to the chronology of events during the war in Croatia. Day 9 Pecs & Villany, Hungary. From the port of Mohacs, depart after breakfast for a full day scenic tour of Pecs and Villany. The city of Pecs enjoys a fine position on the slopes of the Mecsek Hills. The visit will feature the sites associated with the city s Roman Ottoman Hapsburg past, as well as a short organ recital in the splendid Pecs Cathedral. Continue on to the town of Villany where we will enjoy lunch and a wine tasting. Villany is one of Hungary s top wine regions, known for its reds and rosés. Thanks to the area s sub-mediterranean climate, wines from Villány are full-bodied and spicy and of the highest quality. Day 10 Kalocsa. Arrive this morning in charming Kalocsa which is renowned for paprika production. Our tour of the Puszta district will include the town and a spectacular display of horsemanship. This afternoon, relax on board as we cruise along the glorious Danube towards Budapest. Day 11 Budapest. We have the day to explore Hungary s elegant capital city. Spend the morning on an excursion that will include the old quarter, visiting the Matthias Church and the Fisherman s Bastion followed by an afternoon at leisure. After dinner be on deck to experience a Budapest by Night cruise, a chance to see this beautiful city s lights in the evening. Moor overnight. Day 12 Budapest. This morning join the tour to the small Baroque town of Godollo which was the favoured home of Sissy, the wife of Emperor Franz Josef, and in recent years the palace has been restored. After lunch on board the afternoon is at leisure for you to relax or explore the delights of this historic city. Tonight join your fellow travellers in the lounge for a marvellous performance by Hungarian pianist Agnes Kovacs followed by our Farewell Gala Dinner. Day 13 Budapest to London. Disembark after breakfast and return to London by scheduled flight. PRICES PER PERSON Based on double occupancy SPECIAL OFFER SAVE 200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY Brochure Special Offer Cat Deck Price Price Junior Suite Select Superior Suite Select Deluxe Suite Select Premium Suite Select Royal Suite Panorama Deluxe Suite for sole use Select Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 12 nights aboard the MS Royal Crown on a full board basis, house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, shore excursions and music events as described, Cruise Director, Tour Manager, Guest Speaker, gratuities, transfers, port taxes, airport taxes. Not Included: Travel insurance. 30

31 PRE-CRUISE EXTENSION EASTERN TREASURES Voronet Monastery Vineyards of Cricova Sucevita Monastery PAINTED MONASTERIES & MOLDAVIAN WINES 29 th September to 4 th October 2018 Before embarking the MS Royal Crown we are offering a five night pre-cruise extension to the beautiful north east region of Romania to visit the famed Painted Monasteries, including a two night stay in the Republic of Moldova to experience the wine and culture of this little known state. These beautiful remote lands are steeped in history, tradition and culture and our itinerary includes many highlights as we travel amongst the plains and slopes of the eastern Carpathians. We start in Chisinau, the capital of the Republic of Moldova and from where we visit the extraordinary Cricova wine cellars, located beneath the hills just outside the city. These cellars are a maze of wine-filled vaults extending between 60 and 120 kilometres into the earth. Indeed, they are so big they are best navigated by car. Amongst the wines on display is a priceless group of bottles accumulated by Herman Goering, having been brought back by the Red Army at the end of World War II. From Chisinau we travel across the border to Iasi in Romania, from where we will visit Tarpesti, a small rural village in the Moldova region before travelling on to Suceava, our base for excursions to the fascinating and unique painted Voronet and Sucevita monasteries; their fine exterior and interior frescoes have been preserved since Medieval times. THE ITINERARY Day 1 London to Chişinǎu, Moldova. Fly by scheduled indirect flight to Chişinau, capital of Moldova, and on arrival transfer to our four-star hotel for a two night stay. Dinner will be at the hotel this evening. Day 2 Cricova, Moldova. After breakfast we depart for nearby Cricova for a tour of the famous cellar and a wine tasting. Cricova cellar is a real underground town with a remarkable and historic collection of wines, and currently the number of bottles stored stands at around 1.3 million, with high profile politicians such as Vladimir Putin and Angela Merkel keeping their private wine collections here. Enjoy lunch and a wine tasting, after which we will return to the city for a guided tour. This evening we will have dinner in a local restaurant with traditional Moldovian cuisine and music. Day 3 Chisinau to Iasi. After breakfast we depart Moldova and drive to Iasi, Romania. (Please note the border crossing can take up to 2 hours). On arrival into Iasi check in to your hotel and enjoy lunch. This afternoon we depart for a tour of this historic city, home to an impressive number of Orthodox churches, most of them located in the so-called Golden Plateau. The oldest, the Princely Saint Nicholas Church, dates from the reign of Stephen the Great. The finest, however, are the 17th century St Paraschiva Metropolitan Cathedral and Trei Ierarhi Church, the last a curious example of Byzantine art, erected in by Vasile Lupu. Dinner tonight will be at a local restaurant serving typical Romanian rustic fare. Day 4 Iasi to Targu Neamt-Suceava to Radauti. After breakfast depart for Tarpesti, a small village in the Modavia region, and on arrival make a visit to the private museum of Mr Popa; see his extraordinary and vast collection of artefacts and archaeological finds, followed by a performance of local folk dance by some of the village children. After lunch here continue on to Radauti with a panoramic city tour of Suceava Citadel en-route. On arrival into Radauti we check in to our hotel for an overnight stay, and join your fellow travellers for a regional wine tasting session before dinner. Day 5 The Painted Monasteries Bucovina. After breakfast depart for the small town of Gura Humorului and visit the Catholic Church Cacica. On arrival see the beautiful Voronet Monastery, the Sistine Chapel of the East where the frescoes feature an intense shade of blue known in Romania as Voroneţ blue. Continue on to Campulung-Moldovenesc and on arrival enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. Afterwards we will visit Moldavita Monastery and Sucevita Monastery, considered to be the greatest of the painted monasteries with its fortress-like appearance, towers and buttresses. Return in the late afternoon to our hotel in Iasi for dinner and an overnight stay. Day 6 Iasi to Cernavoda. After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Bucharest. On arrival enjoy a visit to Bucharest Old Town, followed by lunch in a local restaurant, after which transfer to the MS Royal Crown in Cernavoda (approx 3 hours drive) for embarkation. Prices per person Based on double occupancy Twin: 995 Single: 1195 Price Includes: Five nights hotel accommodation at four-star hotels as described, full board throughout, wine & soft drinks with lunch & dinner, excursions, Tour Manager, gratuities. Not Included: Travel insurance. +44 (0)

32 2 Chester Close, Belgravia, London, SW1X 7BE +44 (0) Our current booking conditions apply to all reservations and are available on request. Ports subject to change and water levels. All special offers are subject to availability. Main cover image: Aggstein Castle and River Danube at sunset, Wachau Valley, Austria _K